Ash’s Blessing: A Path Forward Through Our Food Services Training Program

Long before graduating from our Food Services Training Program (FSTP), Ash found he had a natural interest in cooking while working as a personal chef for a young client near and dear to his heart.

“When my daughter was young, I realized I couldn’t just keep making Hamburger Helper or taking us out to Taco Bell, so I started teaching myself to how to cook.”

Despite his newfound knack for cooking, at that time, Ash would never have considered it for a future profession.

“I had a big job; a successful career that saw me travel the breadth of Canada. But I messed up. Eventually, I was living out of my car.”

While staying at Ottawa’s Jericho Road Recovery House, Ash pondered how he might find a way to rebuild his life. Then, a staff person told him about a free culinary training program provided by The Ottawa Mission.

Recalling his love of cooking for his daughter, Ash applied to the FSTP. He was soon building on his amateur talents in a meaningful way.

Your support saw that Ash received college-level culinary instruction, knife skills, certifications, and, perhaps most importantly, a work placement that led directly to a full-time position in the kitchen of a downtown restaurant.

Ash was deeply moved by how you helped him get back on his feet.

“Beyond the instruction and training, it was also the small things… The FSTP provides us with a free grocery program, life coaching, and employment resources. It’s all been a godsend. Thank you!”